featuring • Wedding Band Trends • ‘Green’ Weddings • One Atlantic ... and more
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The Wedding is Day One of a Unique Adventure By Sharon Harris-Zlotnick
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OST PEOPLE REMEMBER THEIR earliest thrill of the crush and lure of romance. The heart feels like it is bursting with affection. That first year of a relationship is often an exhilarating phase. Romance tops the list as a key to a happy partnership. Psychologists, anthropologists and scientists have universally
concluded that romance is inherent in humans. Virtually everyone has a need and desire to feel love. Reinforced by scientific research, anthropologist Helen Fisher has concluded that romance, separate from sexual desire, is the more powerful biological urge. While “chemistry” between partners may be a cliché, researchers have
determined that there actually is a chemical reaction within the body. In her book, Why We Love: The Nature and Chemistry of Romantic Love, Fisher describes brain-scan testing on people in relationships. She confirms that partners who claim they are in love demonstrate a high concentration of receptors for dopamine, a chemical tied to addiction and euphoria. This elation phase typically lasts from
one to three years. However, the good news is that scientists have also discovered that another brain chemical, oxytocin, often increases after a time of security within a relationship. Oxytocin pushes the need for intimacy, whether spiritual, emotional or physical. Author Maggie Scarf, married for 55 years to a Yale professor, has studied rela-
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Even issues such as sports may affect a marriage.
(Continued from page B–2) tionships for 30 years. Her new book, September Songs: The Good News about Marriage in the Later Years, describes the ebbs and flows of long lasting marriages, changing over time with physical, emotional, economic and family situations. While aging takes it physical tolls, it also offers couples in long marriages the maturity for emohandle one person’s interest in sports, which can be tional growth and continued connection. time consuming, at specific times of the year? Or, how are holidays treated within a family? Are there too many expectations, and how does the couple react? What is one’s attitude on how to spend money for birthdays, holidays and other celebrations? Do seasonal work demands mean less time for family? These and other issues that occur in a typical year However, in those early days, while the excitement can affect and influence how a couple relates. It often and glamour of true love and commitment is difficult requires compromise and flexibility. The first year of to resist, couples should seriously evaluate their relaa relationship can be a good predictor of a couple’s tionship prior to making the lifelong commitment. success. It sounds like an obvious premise, but in fact many After making their commitment, all those happy coucouples do not take the time to get beyond the initial ples should enjoy the rush, create a healthy relationship passion and surge in their feelings. and look forward to a satisfying, stable life together. The Some relationship professionals advise waiting a wedding is just day one of a unique adventure. full year before making an exclusive lifelong commitment. In other words, wait four seasons before Wedding Bands — Not of the Musical becoming engaged. Variety The 12-month cycle offers a glimpse into each other’s Sure, diamonds on an engagement ring may be a girl’s behaviors and preferences throughout the year. It also best friend, but a wedding band on the left finger truly provides a window into potential issues and their com-
In other words, wait four seasons before becoming engaged.
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promise solutions. For example, how does a couple
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White gold and platinum rings are a popular choice.
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seals the deal. Some historians trace the wedding ring back almost 5,000 years to the Egyptians, who twisted plant materials like hemp into rings. They believed the round wedding-ring symbolism was linked to eternal love. To them, the ring finger of the left hand followed the “vena amoris,” or vein of love, which is directly connected to the heart. It is even mentioned in the hieroglyphics on the walls of Egyptian tombs. Science has since disproved this, but it remains a strong emotional tradition. Men have only recently worn rings as part of the ceremony. Before 1940, only about 15 percent of bridegrooms received rings. The double-ring ceremony grew popular during World War II, when the number increased to 60 percent of couples exchanging rings. That statistic rose to 70 percent during the 1950s. Today, most weddings do include a double-ring ceremony. After the wedding, proper wearing for matched sets is putting the wedding ring on first, followed by the engagement ring. It is a symbolic gesture that the wedding band is closest to a woman’s heart. For those choosing to wear wedding bands — not everyone does for various reasons — styles come and go. Due to costs and a trend towards subtly, white gold and platinum has outpaced yellow gold in recent years. Some jewelers claim they are selling white gold twice as often as yellow gold.
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Whatever type of gold, wedding bands are available in both 14-carat and 18-carat gold. For those who may have trouble deciding between the two because of style or price, many designs incorporate a bit of both colors. Ali Soleimani, owner of Obsessions Jewelers in Somers Point since 1986, states that he carries wedding rings at all price points, from $300 up to $20,000. For women, much depends on the engagement ring. “If a woman has an expensive diamond engagement ring, she is more likely to want a wedding band that looks equal,” says Soleimani. “That may cost an average $1,500. For women desiring diamonds in their wedding band, the trend is for either princess-cut square or round stones.” However, Soleimani does say that beautiful rings are available for much less money. Couples often opt for the durability of platinum. According to Soleimani, many men are choosing palladium, a metal made from platinum, as a less expensive alternative. Some jewelers claim that a subtle matte finish is the No. 1 choice at this time. However, they warn that scratches can easily mar the finish, requiring regular
ring maintenance. All too often, men have been forgotten when it comes to design. According to www.theknot.com, a wedding Web site, men are front and center this season. Many designs focus not only on appearance, but also comfortable ring wearing. These newer ergonomically advanced rings are more user-friendly. Pinched skin is out, replaced by curved rings that hug the finger. The tapered bottom may absorb the stresses of daily life, leaving the top of the ring virtually immune to wear and tear. Think diamonds are only for women? Think again because diamonds for men are very chic this year. Of course, the gems will be smaller — usually less than a carat — and more subtle. The stones are typically set flush with the ring’s surface to maximize their security. When choosing rings, jobs or hobbies should be considered. For example, a man who works in a physically demanding occupation like construction, or anyone
who enjoys physically active hobbies should choose platinum, but avoid a matte finish. Conversely, a man with a desk job and leisure activities that may be more academic has an easier choice. For those whose lifestyles mix both, be smart and take substance over sizzle.
‘Green’ Weddings As the debate over global warming and climate change increases, more and more people feel compelled to do their part for conservation. Where they live may impact their course of action. Established in 1892, the Sierra Club is the oldest, largest and most influential grass-roots environmental organization in the U.S. The group’s 1.3 million members and supporters belong to chapters nationwide. They offer assistance and advice, based on the specifics of individual regions. According to director Jeff Tittel of the New Jersey
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sources like wind and solar energy. When booking a venue, thinking “green” can also save money. Selecting a location with built-in artistic detail can cut down on the decoration, thus saving paper and flowers. For example, sites such as art gal-
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Sierra Club in Trenton, “green” weddings are the fastest growing component of the wedding industry. “A lot of people, especially those younger brides and grooms, want to be green every day,” he says. “They are asking how they can make sure their wedding day is also friendly to the environment.” Tittel states that some couples have gone so far as to work with the local utility companies to negate any carbon offsets for their special day. Couples can arrange to have their power for that day derived from alternative
Couples can even arrange to have their power for the wedding day derived from wind and solar energy. leries, non-profit space, organic restaurants and farms, green hotels or gardens decrease the need for extras ... much of the beauty is the venue itself. Future bride Melissa Broder thinks “green.” She was always interested in the environment while growing up in Pennsylvania and became more aware of conservation efforts after working in 2001 as a field manager
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(Continued from page B–8) for CalPirg, a California group that raised money for the Sierra Club. Currently residing in New York City, Broder will bring those concerns to her wedding at the Brooklyn Botanic Gardens in December. The venue has its own builtin decorative advantages. The dinner menu will offer traditional meat and fish courses, but as a vegetarian herself, Broder is also including a vegetarian selection for any guest. When selecting a wedding menu, Jon Weinrott, founder of Peachtree & Ward Caterers and a partner at One Atlantic at The Pier Shops at Caesars (slated to finally open in June 2009), recommends maximizing the attributes of a region. “Why not ask that the caterer purchase foods from farms practicing sustainable agriculture?” he recommends. “For instance, New Jersey — nicknamed the Garden State — has always been an agricultural state. When serving beverages, consider wines that are grown biodynamically and coffee grown at fair trade plantations.” Couples may work with the venue to limit the use of disposable items. Weinrott recommends linen cocktail napkins at the bars and for hors d’oeuvres, eliminating the waste of paper products. Table linens may also be made of organic cottons. Attendant gifts may also limit disposables and lend themselves to environmentally-conscious choices. Some
Some caterers can provide organic menus popular options for women are a basket of organic skincare products or fashion items like recycled jewelry, wallets and handbags. If couples prefer to offer edible favors, organic coffees, teas and chocolates may pamper the taste buds of their friends. Not all attempts to address environmental issues affect the activities on site. When traveling, city receptions offer responsible transportation opportunities. Broder says: “Many of my friends live in Manhattan or Brooklyn and do not own a car. They will be taking the subway to my wedding. Out-of-town guests who stay at our designated hotel in Manhattan will be transported by one bus to the Botanic Gardens as a group. This will eliminate multiple cars on the roads.” Rural functions may have more restricted transportation choices, but guests may decrease their gas usage by carpooling with family members or leaving their vehicles at regional rail stations that do serve a nearby city. Many older bridal couples have already established
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furnished homes, and may request that guests donate to a “green” charity, such as a rainforest or other ecological project. Following the wedding, environmentally-friendly honeymoons can be as rugged or luxurious as a couple prefers. Check out www.planeta.com or www. responsibletravel.com to reserve a trip that suits a couple’s style while helping the environment. If not booking an entire trip, a couple can do some small things like renting a bike, hiking or taking public transportation at the destination.
Weddings are always hectic affairs, and everyone’s nerves are on edge on that special day. What better soothing, calming experience could there be than a backdrop of the ocean with rolling waves crashing onto the sand? One Atlantic, the smashing new event venue in Atlantic City, will open for its first functions in June 2009. From its mid-Boardwalk location, perched 100 yards out over the Atlantic Ocean, One Atlantic will provide soaring ocean vistas from the top level of The Pier Shops at Caesars. It is the only venue of its type in the region. The contemporary site’s construction will offer floor-to-ceiling 22-foot windows on three walls. This unobstructed view presents a panoramic expanse looking north, south and east over the ocean, while also incorporating views of the famed Atlantic City Boardwalk and sky-
Group. Weinrott and his wife Lori founded Peachtree & Ward Caterers in 1985. They will serve as the official food source for all events. In more than 20 years, Peachtree & Ward has catered thousands of lavish weddings, elaborate celebrations and milestone events throughout the Philadelphia and southern New Jersey regions. The Icon Group operates several boutique nightlife, restaurant and event venues in the country. The company focuses on creating innovative and unique parties. Muse Architects of New York City has completed the architectural guidelines of the 17,000 square-foot floor plan. It has Even if it’s to be a chilly late fall wed- a contoured sweeping ceiling that is 18 ding, as part of the Pier complex, One feet at its highest point. The space will be Atlantic is easily accessible from Caesars laid out in such a way as to accommodate Atlantic City, via a heated walkway con- at least two events a day, depending on nector crossing over the Boardwalk. the timing and type of occasion. One The project is currently under devel(Continued on page B–14) opment by Jon Weinrott and the Icon line. The Pier is easily accessible by car, bus, train or plane. Warm-weather weddings will certainly be popular, however, One Atlantic plans to advertise itself as a year-round wedding venue, a perfect destination location for enjoying Atlantic City’s entertainment, restaurant, shopping and spa options for a few extra days.
One Atlantic is slated to open in June 2009 at The Pier Shops at Caesars
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walkway that will be perfect for an after party or photography session. If requested, One Atlantic will offer bridal couples a complete wedding planning package. A group of experienced wedding consultants can provide expert recommendations for the following: • Ceremonies: They can assist in planning traditional religious ceremonies, suggesting officials of all denominations, or civil unions and vow renewal celebrations.
(Continued from page B–12) Atlantic will coordinate its times with the hours of The Pier Shops at Caesars. One Atlantic’s floor plan will have the versatility to be divided into several areas, using whatever space is appropriate for each individual wedding party. For additional walking and dancing comfort, the dark flooring is a composite cork material. The space will accommodate from 10 to 75 in a flexible ceremony configuration. For dinner seating, the floor may be set up for 275, or up to 500 if an air wall is opened. Weather permitting, there is also a 2,000-square-foot, finished rooftop
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• Decorations: Wedding planners can help coordinate the decorative elements of a wedding, including floral, linen, lighting and furniture choices. • Entertainment: One Atlantic maintains a complete list of entertainers that includes live bands, DJs, special performers and fireworks. • Photography: Videographers and traditional photographers. • Transportation and accommodations packages: One Atlantic can arrange
The dance floor at the One Atlantic complex
for group housing for the bridal couple and guests. Transportation options include limos, buses, luxury rental vehicles or even a helicopter arrival. • Invitation and gift items: Bridal couples will have access to a wide range of invitation ideas and styles, plus gifts for special guests and attendants. • Menu selections: A professional forager will source local and environmentally sustainable foods for the event. These will help in creating a contemporary global cuisine, drawn from the many popular dishes and dining traditions of Europe, Asia and Latin America. One Atlantic’s expert chefs are also capable of creating culinary items that adhere to any dietary or ethnic requirements. For example, they are able meet all kitchen mandates, as required when serving a strict Kosher menu. • Bar service: Professional sommeliers enhance the luxury bar and cocktail service, offering suggestions for wine pairings. A renowned mixologist can design custom cocktails. They also use fresh-squeezed juices, microbrews, specially sourced wines and custom-infused liquors. Weinrott’s professional history is rich with culinary experience. He and his wife, both fluent in French, spent a year cooking at various restaurants and bistros in Paris when they were younger. Weinrott believes that experience provided him with valuable insights and knowledge when recommending menu options to bridal couples. He emphasizes their ability to completely personalize a reception menu. “We listen to a couple’s story and then may work around a theme that they like,” says Weinrott. “Their story is important, and we try to value and honor them individually. We have used our clients’ family recipes,
which really makes it more personal. With enough advance notice, we even contract local produce suppliers to grow special fruits and vegetables.” Peachtree & Ward did just that for the Sept. 13 wedding of Jesse Rendell, son of Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell, at the governor’s Harrisburg residence. They sourced many of the vegetables and raw milk for cheese from Pennsylvania farms and dairies. Weinrott also used sweet onions grown in Lancaster County, Pa. for First Lady and mother-of-the-groom Midge Rendell’s onion ring recipe. One Atlantic will appeal to anyone seeking the convenience of one-stop shopping. The staff is working in conjunction with The Pier Shops at Caesars for bridal registries, gift items and other personal salon and makeup center services. While not affiliated with any specific hotel or casino property, One Atlantic is forging relationships with all of the nearby venues, which may include special room rates. Also, One Atlantic may be able to refer rehearsal dinner parties to one of the several outstanding Pier restaurants. However, some bridal couples prefer a non-traditional venue. For example, being at the Jersey Shore, beach or yacht weddings are popular. Other venues may be a garden, seaside home or country club. One Atlantic can cater an off-premise wedding event, linking the menu selections to the location and the time of year. One Atlantic is scheduled to open for its first functions in early June 2009. In addition to weddings, Weinrott hopes that One Atlantic will become a favorite choice for Bar Mitzvahs, Bat Mitzvahs and corporate reception events. He is presently accepting contracts for weddings and other events. One Atlantic is located The Pier Shops at Caesars, Suite 4106, Atlantic City. For more information, call 343-9902, visit the Web site at www.oneatlanticevents. com or e-mail info@oneatlanticevents.com. Q
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